Nick spoke to Dave Hewitt a long term listener to the show, and a man who has spent 40 years exploring occupation history. Dave is based in the UK but Nick and he caught up on a recent visit to the Island.

In this conversation, Dave shares his deep passion for the history of the occupation of the Channel Islands during World War II. He discusses his journey of discovery, the extensive collection of books and artifacts he has amassed, and the personal connections he has made with the history and the people involved. The importance of raising awareness about this often-overlooked history is emphasized, along with the impact of Liberation Day and the role of community in preserving these stories for future generations.

• Dave has been visiting the Channel Islands for over 40 years.
• His interest in the occupation began with a local news program in the late 1970s.
• He has collected around 350 to 400 books and artifacts related to the occupation.
• The occupation is often seen as a forgotten history that needs more awareness.
• Personal stories from locals provide valuable insights into the occupation experience.
• Liberation Day is a significant event that showcases local pride and remembrance.
• Community efforts are crucial in preserving the history of the occupation.
• Cultural representations, like films, can spark interest in the occupation's history.
• Dave treasures a V-badge he received as a gift, symbolizing the personal connection to the occupation.
• He hopes to pass on his passion for history to future generations. 
  
  

It was an absolute pleasure to catch up with him and he will definitely be appearing in future episodes.  Not least because he gave me a cracking idea for a panel episode on the podcast.

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You can find out more about the occupation on Nick’s website Island Fortress here.

Thanks to Gnet Radio for recording the podcast and thanks to Jim Delbridge for the use of his song ‘5 to 7’ as our theme.